Ulster University is proud to announce the graduation of the first cohort of students from its Community Scholarship Programme this summer, marking a milestone in the university's commitment to accessible higher education, offering these students a brighter start to their future.
Launched in September 2021, Ulster University’s Community Scholarships programme was created to offer everyone the opportunity to experience higher education without the financial burden of tuition fees, as often financial barriers can be the only reason that people cannot progress to university.
These scholarships aim to address this inequality by supporting those students, who have faced challenges on their educational journey, with potential and ambition who may be discouraged from going to university simply due to financial barriers.
Ulster University partnered with a network of local businesses across Northern Ireland who act as ‘donors’ awarding these students a chance to access higher education. These businesses are committed to funding scholarships supporting more people on their university journey, to ensure that they graduate with the qualifications, experiences, and skills they need to secure a better future.
With the support of generous donors, the programme offers access to higher education for new students entering first-year full-time degrees based on one of Ulster University's three campuses in Belfast, Coleraine, or Derry~Londonderry.
Claire Mulrone, Head of Widening Access and Participation explains:
“Our Graduating class of 2024 will include our first Community Scholarships students, we are delighted to celebrate their achievements and to recognise the generosity of our donors. This partnership has provided real opportunities for students to realise their potential at Ulster and will have a lasting impact on their lives and their futures.”
Leighann McConville, Schools Outreach Coordinator, Widening Access and Participation said:
"Community Scholarships are intended to remove financial barriers to access, progress, and succeed at Ulster University. The financial help coupled with mentoring and academic support provided allows students to thrive. This single point of contact also connects students with other special support at Ulster. Our Community Scholars are an integral part of our Ulster student community."
Megan Farrelly, BSc Hons Sociology with Criminology graduating Scholarship student outlines the impact the scholarship had on them:
"Being a recipient of a Community Scholarship has made a significant difference to me, I didn't have to worry about working extra hours, and I was able to focus on degree. Regular meetings with the Co-ordinator provided support for all aspects of university life, including career planning and post-graduate opportunities. Accessing this additional guidance has enhanced my university experience and I am so grateful.”
Creating a better future for her children, a current Scholarship student shared her personal journey, she said:
" Receiving a Community Scholarship has relieved financial pressure on me, I have been able to care for my mum, my two children and not have to worry about working more hours to make ends meet. The mentoring support has been invaluable to me over the last academic year. Thank you for providing this opportunity."
For more information on Ulster University’s Community Scholarships, please visit https://www.ulster.ac.uk/scholarships/community-scholarships
or email communityscholarships@ulster.ac.uk